Three dimensional printing technology in neurosurgery

Abstract

Objective To discussion the application value of three dimensional (3D) printing in neurosurgery. Methods A retrospective analysis of 7 patients with intracranial diseases, admitted to our hospital from April 2016 to December 2016 was performed. Cerebral hemorrhage, meningioma in the central region, sphenoid ridge meningioma, pituitary adenoma, odontoid deformity, chordoma, and aneurysm were noted in these patients. Cranial CT/MR imaging data of all patients were attained preoperatively. Three-dimensional reconstruction was performed using MIMICS. Models of intracranial diseases were printed using a 3D printer. Surgical simulation and planning were performed on the physical models. Results Models of intracranial diseases of all patients were produced before surgeries. The models clearly demonstrated the morphologies of intracranial diseases and spatial relationship with adjacent large vessels and skull. The operative approach was planned in vitro. Patients recovered well postoperatively without severe complications or death. Conclusion The 3D printing can assist the resection of intracranial lesions well and has great utilization potential in localizing intracranial lesions and demonstrating adjacent anatomical relationships; it provides required help to clinical doctors for preoperative planning. Key words: Three dimensional printing; Intracranial disease; Surgical treatment